In the beginning, air travel was egalitarian, classless — and, well, classy. Everyone sat in identical seats. In the 1950s, they resembled your dad’s La-Z-Boy: luxuriously padded, with footrests.

In the 60s those seats morphed into “first class” and, to make travel affordable for all, economy class seats were introduced, configured six across in each row. There was still plenty of legroom in coach, and you got a hot meal, playing cards, and plastic wings for the kiddies.

But as economy class became more cramped, airlines began offering premium economy. On domestic flights, it’s not much of a thing — just some extra legroom and priority boarding, maybe a drink and snacks. On international flights, there can be perks galore: better meals, fewer seats per row, priority check-in, dedicated lavatories and cabins, and little niceties such as a welcome drink on boarding.

Still, it’s premium econ’s wider seats, extra leg and knee room (“seat pitch” in airline parlance) and greater seat recline — all making sleep easier on long haul flights — that attracts fliers. Here’s what to expect on a variety of international airlines if you’re willing to pay a premium.